Windows 10 Support Ends Tomorrow — Here’s How to Get an Extra Year for Free
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, marking the end of regular security updates, bug fixes, and technical support. While your PC will continue to run, it will become increasingly vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues.
However, there’s good news — Microsoft is offering users a way to get one extra year of security updates for free through its Extended Security Update (ESU) program. Here’s how it works.
What “End of Support” Means
Once support ends, Microsoft will stop releasing updates that protect your computer from new viruses and malware. This doesn’t mean your PC will stop functioning — it simply means it will no longer receive security patches, making it unsafe for long-term use, especially when connected to the internet.
The Extended Security Update (ESU) Program
To ease the transition, Microsoft has introduced the Windows 10 Extended Security Update (ESU) program.
This allows users to continue receiving critical and important security updates until October 13, 2026.
There are three ways to enroll:
- Use Windows Backup (Free Option)
If you sign in with a Microsoft Account and enable Windows Backup to sync your settings, you can qualify for the free ESU automatically. - Redeem Microsoft Rewards Points (Free Option)
If you have 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, you can redeem them for a free one-year ESU license. - Pay a Small Fee (Paid Option)
If neither free option works for you, you can buy an ESU license for about US $30 (or the local equivalent in your country).
Important Details
- The ESU only provides security updates — no new features or performance upgrades.
- It is available for one year only, from October 14, 2025 to October 13, 2026.
- You must enroll manually; the process won’t happen automatically.
- A Microsoft Account is required for the free or paid options. Local (offline) accounts may not qualify.
How to Enroll for the Extra Year
- Update Windows 10
Make sure your PC is running the latest version of Windows 10 with all updates installed. - Open Settings
Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
Look for a banner or button that says “Enroll now for Extended Security Updates.” - Choose Your Option
Select one of the following:- Use Windows Backup and sign in with your Microsoft Account.
- Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
- Purchase the ESU license for $30.
- Confirm Enrollment
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. Once enrolled, your PC will automatically continue receiving security patches for one more year — through October 2026.
Why You Should Act Now
Windows 10 remains one of the most popular operating systems in the world, with millions of active users. If your device isn’t compatible with Windows 11, the ESU program gives you an extra year of protection — completely free if you meet the criteria.
Don’t wait until your system is at risk. Take a few minutes to enroll now and keep your computer secure beyond the official end-of-support date.